Anthony Bourdain and Jiu Jitsu

The world lost an incredible talent and advocate for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu today.  Anthony Bourdain who was most well-known for his widely viewed television show "Parts Unknown" where he traveled the globe introducing his viewers to his unique and colorful explorations of every type of person and their cuisine.

At the age of 58, Anthony Bourdain, followed the footsteps of then wife Ottavia who was already an avid jiu jitsu practitioner and competitor and began training.  Through his work, he was able to expand the public's understanding of jiu jitsu and by sharing his journey, he inspired countless people to begin training.

In this interview segment from the Charlie Rose show in 2014, Bourdain discusses the impact that training BJJ had on his life and compared it his experiences as a chef.  Check it out below.

 "To learn an entirely new skill is deeply satisfying."

Countless practitioners of BJJ probably had the same thoughts that Bourdain did at age 58 when he started BJJ.  "Am I too old?"  Anthony Bourdain showed the world what many of us have figured out, that you're never too old to step on the mats and outside your comfort level.

"The incremental, tiny satisfactions of being a little less awful at something everyday.."

No matter when you start, jiu jitsu teaches you that through constant practice and perseverance, you can get better, albeit slowly and in small increments.  Comparing it to his journey in the food industry, Bourdain found a great deal of satisfaction in having a new project, or puzzle to solve.  

"I think about it (Jiu Jitsu) for the rest of the day."

Who among us hasn't been lost deep in thought while driving, riding the train, or wherever and thought about something we could have done in a simple roll.  Jiu Jitsu has a way of embedding itself deep into our psyche and coloring our perception and thoughts for the other 23 hours of the day and this is a great thing.

While we here at BJJ Fanatics join the world in mourning the loss of Anthony Bourdain, we are grateful for the incredible impact and light that he was able to bring to the art of Jiu Jitsu.  If you or a loved one are feeling alone or in need of help, do not hesitate to reach out to the suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255.